On tracked machines such as excavators and bulldozers, the undercarriage is one of the biggest maintenance costs. Tracks, rollers, idlers and sprockets wear together, so good habits in daily operation make a noticeable difference to their service life.
Keep the track tension correct
A track that is too tight increases friction and wears pins, bushings and sprockets quickly. A track that is too loose can come off and causes extra wear on the idlers and carrier rollers. Measure the sag as described in the operator’s manual and adjust it for the ground conditions: working in mud usually needs slightly looser tracks than working on hard ground.
Clean the undercarriage regularly
Mud, clay and stones packed around the rollers and sprockets add weight, increase wear and can freeze or harden overnight. Cleaning the undercarriage at the end of the shift is quick and reduces wear.
Operate with the undercarriage in mind
- Avoid unnecessary high-speed travel and reverse travel.
- Make gradual, wide turns instead of sharp pivot turns.
- Alternate turning direction during the shift so both sides wear evenly.
- Minimise working on slopes where possible, as this concentrates wear on one side.
Inspect and measure
Check for loose bolts, oil leaks on rollers and idlers, and cracked or bent track shoes. Measuring wear at regular intervals lets you plan component replacement before a failure stops the machine.
Undercarriage parts
Sanindo supplies undercarriage parts for many types of heavy equipment. Browse undercarriage parts in our catalog or contact us with your machine model and part numbers.
